Who Can I Sue If My Artificial Hip or Knee Replacement Failed?
Artificial joints are a landmark in orthopedic medicine that has helped millions to regain mobility after serious injuries, advanced arthritis, and other issues. But when these devices fail, patients suddenly find themselves right back in a state of disability and pain equal to - or worse - than they experienced before surgery.
If you or someone you love has found themselves in this situation, you’re probably wondering: who can I sue if my artificial hip or knee replacement failed? Is it a medical malpractice lawsuit, or perhaps a legal claim for a defective medical device. At Moody Law, serving Lakeland, Bartow, and Tampa, FL, we invite you to take a look at possible answers to this important question.
Was Someone Negligent?
This is the primary question when it comes to any kind of personal injury, be it a car accident or failed hip or knee replacement. It’s important to remember that you don’t automatically have a case just because the replacement joint failed. It’s entirely possible that the failure is due to normal wear and tear or an injury.
It takes medical expertise to determine if the failure can be attributed to negligence. If you are suffering the effects of a failed replacement joint, get in touch with our firm. We work with medical experts who can assess the details of your case and determine if you have grounds for legal action.
Manufacturer Negligence
Although victims may initially blame their surgeon for a failed hip or knee replacement, there is a long history of manufacturing and design defects resulting in injury to recipients.
For example, a metal-on-metal design was implemented for a period before it was discovered that it could cause a host of problems. One such issue, metallosis, occurs when a metal ball rubbing constantly against a metal socket results in tiny pieces of metal breaking away from the device, causing issues like pain, swelling, and blood poisoning.
Medical Negligence
In some cases, the surgeon or another medical professional is to blame for a failed replacement joint. Improper placement is just one error that can take place in this process. In some cases, proper sterilization practices may have been neglected, resulting in an infection that can be potentially life-threatening.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is another condition that can develop as a result of negligence during joint replacement surgery. This condition occurs when a blood clot develops inside a vein located deep in the body; if the clot breaks away and travels to the lungs, it can be fatal. To avoid causing DVT, your surgeon must take care to avoid allowing bone marrow or tissue debris to enter the blood system.
Again, medical expertise is essential to identifying when this kind of negligence occurs, and Moody Law is prepared to consult people with the credentials and experience your case needs.
Request a Free Consultation Today
Now that you have a basic idea of what could constitute a personal injury lawsuit regarding a faulty hip or knee replacement, we welcome you to reach out to us to discuss your case in greater detail during a free consultation. Our attorneys have secured millions for victims of medical malpractice and defective products, and are prepared to help you assert your rights. Write a message to us or call our office location near you.
